Thailand Plans to Cut Visa-Free Stay from 60 to 30 Days — Major Impact for Expats

Thailand is preparing to halve the visa-free stay period for tourists from 93 countries, reducing it from 60 days to 30 days. The Foreign Affairs Minister has submitted a proposal to cabinet amid mounting pressure over foreigners allegedly operating illegal businesses, particularly Russians and Chinese nationals using Thai nominees to circumvent ownership laws. The government is also reviewing eligibility criteria for investment visas, long-term residency permits, student visas, and digital nomad schemes. Prime Minister Anutin stressed the change is about balance, not abandoning tourism, as the sector generated nearly $50bn from 33 million visitors last year. Expats on visa-exempt entries will need to plan more frequent border runs or switch to formal visa categories if the proposal is approved.